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Nouveau Monde Graphite has officially launched construction of its Phase-2 Matawinie graphite mining project in Quebec, marking a major milestone in the development of North America’s critical minerals supply chain.
The groundbreaking ceremony at Saint-Michel-des-Saints brought together Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Quebec Minister of Economy and Energy Bernard Drainville, Indigenous leaders and regional stakeholders, underscoring the project’s strategic importance for battery materials and energy transition supply chains.
Matawinie Project Targets Large-Scale Graphite Production
The Matawinie operation is expected to reach commercial production by the end of 2028 following an estimated 31-month construction and commissioning phase.
Once operational, the mine is forecast to produce approximately 106,000 tonnes of graphite annually, positioning the project as a significant source of natural graphite for North American and global battery manufacturing markets.
Production is already supported by commercial agreements with partners including Panasonic Energy, the Government of Canada and Traxys North America, covering more than 70% of expected output.
Founder, President and CEO Eric Desaulniers of NMG said the construction launch represented years of planning and collaboration.
“This groundbreaking marks far more than the start of construction; it represents the culmination of years of dedication and perseverance by our employees who have firmly believed in our vision from the very beginning. I would like to sincerely thank them for their exceptional efforts and contributions. I also wish to acknowledge the invaluable support and commitment of all levels of government, the Atikamekw Nation of Manawan, the Municipality of Saint-Michel-des-Saints, as well as our other partners and clients,” he said.
Eric Desaulniers, President and CEO of Nouveau Monde Graphite, addresses the audience during the groundbreaking ceremony officially marking the launch of construction of Phase-2 Matawinie mine.
Integrated Critical Minerals Strategy
The project forms part of Nouveau Monde Graphite’s vertically integrated strategy to develop a full ore-to-battery-material supply chain in Quebec.
Alongside the Matawinie mine, the company is advancing plans for a battery material plant in Bécancour, targeting a final investment decision during the second half of 2026. The facility is planned to produce 13,000 tonnes annually for Panasonic Energy under an existing offtake agreement.
The Government of Canada previously designated the project as a major project of national interest, highlighting its role in strengthening domestic critical mineral production and reducing reliance on overseas graphite supply.
Focus on Mining Investment and Community Development
Sipi Flamand, Chief of the Atikamekw First Nation of Manawan, said the project would support economic reconciliation and long-term employment opportunities for Indigenous communities.
“The start of construction of the Matawinie graphite mine represents a concrete step toward true economic reconciliation. It is the result of a relationship between the company and the community based on respect, trust, and a shared vision for the development of our territory. It will create quality jobs for our members and enable sustainable business opportunities for our enterprises. By supporting this project, our community is also proudly contributing to the growth of a global green economy. This is a project that will bring prosperity for generations to come.”
The integrated project is expected to create several hundred construction jobs and more than 300 permanent operational roles once fully commissioned.
This article was produced by the editorial team at Mining Outlook and published as part of the Outlook Publishing global network of B2B industry magazines.
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